Mentoring Program

Program Purpose

• The mentoring program is designed to support professional growth for Medical and Health Sciences Librarians in the SCMLA region by pairing experienced librarians (mentors) with those seeking guidance, skill development, and career advisement (mentees). 
• Through regular conversations, our goal for the mentoring program is that participants will foster continuous development and build strong relationships. 

If you are interested in become a SCMLA Mentor, please submit the Southern Chapter MLA Mentor Application

If you are interested in being a SCMLA Mentee, please submit the Southern Chapter MLA Mentee Application

The Membership Committee will then work to match the Mentor/Mentee pairs. 

The Mentoring Program is available only to current SCMLA members.

Program Structure

• Duration: 12 months, with the option to extend the relationship. 
• Meetings: Monthly sessions at minimum, with additional meetings at the discretion of the mentoring pair. 
• Format: In person, virtual, or other format that works best for the mentoring pair.
• Focus Areas: New graduate librarians, new career librarians, established career librarians looking to learn something new.

Roles and Responsibilities

Mentor Responsibilities

• Mentors are sounding boards, and guides. The role of the mentor is to support the mentee’s development.
• For additional guidance, please refer to ACRL’s Mentor Roles and Responsibilities 

Key expectations:

• Build rapport: Foster a welcoming, trusting environment.
• Provide guidance: Share knowledge, experience, and insight related to the mentee’s goals.
• Offer feedback: Provide constructive, actionable suggestions for growth. 
• Support goal setting: Help mentees identify clear, achievable objectives.
• Respect boundaries: Maintain confidentiality and avoid directing personal decisions.

Mentee Responsibilities

• Mentees take an active role in shaping and driving the mentoring relationship.
• For additional guidance, please review ACRL’s Mentee Tip Sheet

Key expectations:

• Set goals: Clearly articulate what they hope to learn or accomplish.
• Seek feedback: Be open to guidance and receptive to new perspectives.
• Follow through: Apply advice and work toward agreed upon actions.
• Communicate openly: Share challenges and successes.
• Respect the mentor’s time: Arrive prepared and maintain professionalism.

Program Outcomes

By participating, both mentors and mentees can expect to:

• Strengthen leadership and communication skills
• Build professional relationships
• Increase career satisfaction
• Develop confidence and clarity in career direction